Free Comic Books

Quick, what moves faster than a speeding bullet? If you said Superman, you're only half right: Free comics featuring Superman move even faster than the Man of Steel himself.

Saturday marks the fifth anniversary of Free Comic Book Day ( http://www.freecomicbookday.com/ ). Joe Field of Flying Colors Comics in Concord, Calif., dreamed up the event when he realized that the rising popularity of comics in Hollywood and pop culture meant a new chance for retailers, distributors and publishers to showcase the medium.

"Our original thought," he says, "was to call attention to the source material for so many Hollywood blockbusters."

The day will include signings by writers and artists in events taking place all over the world, with participation from two dozen publishers. Locally, there are several goings-on to choose from. (Check the event Web site for details.) One highlight? Sean Chen, who illustrates one of Marvel Comics's mega-popular X-Men titles, will be signing his work at Beyond Comics (701 Russell Ave., Lake Forest Mall, Gaithersburg, 301-216-0007) from noon-4 p.m. Among the loot available gratis will be reprints of classic Disney Donald Duck comics, sneak peeks at three new series from manga powerhouse Tokyopop and an all-new Marvel comic featuring the X-Men and teen superhero crew the Runaways. "It's usually a packed house for most the day," says the store's general manager, John Shine. "People love comics, and people love free stuff." Get there early -- but leave the cape at home.

Evan Narcisse